Our marriage, divorce, and love

Chapter 1

On their wedding day, a handsome groom and his beautiful bride said, "I Do." Their hearts were fluttering with pure joy! They had married the love of their life!

Is this what I experience? No, this is not that story. Here is the other version, Tameka Morton's version. You see, love didn't become apparent until after my divorce. I can't wait to tell you from beginning to end how it all transpired.

The day I said "I do," I thought I would be floating on cloud nine, right? But, instead, my heart fluttered, not with pure joy but with fear! Because my rose color glasses had been removed and I saw the man, I had made my vows to love and deeply respect in a different light. He was my one true love. But I found out he didn't feel the same about me on our wedding day.

Okay, to be perfectly honest with you and me. I knew he wasn't head over heels in love with me. But ladies, you know what I thought. I thought he would eventually fall in love with me because I'm sweet and love this man only if he gave our marriage a chance. There's a strong possibility we would've lived blissfully ever after. But I had no idea how much he didn't love me and didn't want to marry me. So to envision him falling in love with me, from what I experienced at our wedding and in our marriage, it appeared it would never happen.

Despite all that, we are married. So did love ever emerge to the surface? If it did make its appearance, was it during the marriage or when we were going through the divorce proceedings? It made its appearance after three years of a sexless and loveless marriage. How?

I have been married to a man name Copeland Morton Junior. You see, Copeland wasn't just any good-looking man. No, he was voted by a well-known business magazine the sexiest man alive in the southern region! Also, Copeland was about to be appointed CEO of his family business. A man like Copeland Morton could offer me the world on a silver platter. He sounds like the perfect catch. Well, he would have been if I was the girl he had in mind to marry.

On our wedding day, boy, was Copeland disgruntled. He accused me of interfering with his plans to marry someone else. I was young, desperate, and coerced by our parents, who felt we were a good match.

I wanted to improve my appearance and look like a sophisticated bride. Then maybe Copeland would find me appealing. So I imitated suggestions from every bridal magazine I could find, but my makeover was a disaster! With braces still on my teeth, too much makeup, and a weird hairdo, I looked like a circus clown.

The second I walked down the aisle, Copeland looked away. But I pushed his reaction aside and focused. My concern was everyone else's happiness but my own.

But it was hard to ignore that glare in Copeland's eyes when we exchanged our vows. It felt dangerous, almost forbidden. And when the minister said those magical words.

"You may kiss the bride."

My heart squeezed, and I closed my eyes. I didn't know what to expect. But then I heard coughing and hacking. I opened my eyes, and between coughs, Copeland finally said. "Minister, I have a cold." The audience gasped. I knew I had to be the first bride not to be kissed at their wedding ceremony!

But that's when reality came crashing in on me! I had embarked on a loveless arrangement. Living under the same roof with someone who acted like I didn't even exist wasn't easy. So, I focused on my career. I got hired at Brandon's Design Company. In six months, I got a promotion with perks. My boss asked me if I would be willing to move to Paris. Naturally, I jumped at the opportunity.

Living in Paris was captivating as it was strange. It was high-pressure, fast-paced, and stressful. Yet, at the end of my work day, all I had the energy to do was come home, kick off my stilettos, and plop down on my comfy sofa. I took my job very seriously. When my boss hired me, I told him I was ready for any challenge.

I fought tooth and nail against every competitor to move Brandon's Design up the ranks in Paris. In my short time here, I'd opened two successful stores within two years. But lately, I have been craving home. My boss must know I deserve a vacation. After all, I've earned one.

But I hesitated to put in my vacation request because going home wasn't simple. I'm still married to Copeland, even though we have been apart for the better part of our marriage. Is he happy with Elizabeth Hubbard? I hope they're happy. But, on second thought, no, I don't. From now on, this is about my happiness, not there's.

I emailed my request. Then I hung up my clothes. Then my phone rang, making me jump. I peeked at my caller ID and gasped when I saw someone calling me.

Clearing my throat, I tried not to sound too excited, even though deep down inside, I was a little glad.

"Hello, Copeland,"

"Hi Tameka, how are you doing?"

"Fine, and you?"

"I'm good. I need you to come back home this weekend. Is that possible?

I wanted to tell him about my plans to take a vacation. But before I could explain, he continued. "Hopefully, you can because we need to sit down and talk about this marriage sham."

"Yes, I know," I said, rolling my eyes at how reckless he could be when he opened his mouth.

"I'm not going to get into it over the phone. It is a conversation that is best had in person."

"I agree. I'll take a flight out Saturday and meet you at the house that evening."

"What time do you think your flight will arrive?"

"Um-hmm, I guess around six thirty."

"Okay, I'll see you soon. Have a safe trip, Tameka."

"Copeland, thank you, and thanks for calling me."

I hope I didn't have any passion in my voice, but this call did give me hope. Maybe he has changed his heart and is ready to fix our marriage. I can't wait to see what happens. Did he and Lizzy break up? Maybe that's why he's calling me now.

~~~~~~

When I left the baggage claim area, I immediately spotted him. "Oh my, what is he doing here?" I stated, beaming. I should be used to his good looks by now. But here he was with this new debonaire haircut and that sexy five o'clock shadow. It left me mesmerized.

He glanced in my direction, but he didn't recognize me. Would Copeland find me attractive? I hated to think I'd put him off.

Back then, I was such a late bloomer. But now, I look different from the girl he married.

My hair is flowing with healthy curls. I now have a slender body with womanly curves. In addition, I've developed poise that had been sadly lacking three years ago.

Copeland's dark eyebrows gathered slightly in the center. It finally clicked in his brain who I was. At first, he looked shocked, but as he approached me, his face relaxed with a pleasant expression.

"Wow! I didn't recognize you. Tameka, you look different with your hair like that."

Was he complimenting me? Is this a dream?

"Copeland, thank you, and thank you for coming to pick me up."

"Oh, I'm not here to pick you up. I came to get this conversation over. But, hey, let's walk to that café over there."

I sighed. I had to bite my tongue. Copeland hasn't changed.

~~~~~~

"Look, I'm not going to waste your time, nor mine." Then, like bullets, his lethal words came blasting from his mouth.

"But can I have a cup of coffee first?" I asked, hoping to slow his pace.

"Can it wait? This is important. Tameka, I want a Divorce. It's been three years. I'm tired of this sexless and loveless marriage. But more importantly than that, Lizzy is very ill, and her only wish is to be married before she leaves this earth."

I was floored. This isn't how I imagined it.

"Copeland, I don't know what to say. You are catching me so off guard."

"Lizzy doesn't want to come in between us, and I don't want her to worry, considering her health. So, tomorrow I need you to convince Lizzy that you're ready for a divorce too."

"Copeland! You are asking a bit much." I stated, frowning.

"For heaven's sake, Tameka! Lizzy is very ill! Have a heart!"

"Alright, alright. I'll do it." I replied agitatedly.

"Well, I got to go. I have a meeting to attend." He left and didn't offer to get me a taxi.

Copeland blew me away! A divorce is exactly what I need! Once I calmed down, I flagged a taxi and headed to our wedding home.

When I arrived at the house, it was lifeless. I turned on the light in the kitchen and took a seat. I was still angry. I rolled my suitcases into the master bedroom.

After some time had passed, my phone rang. It was my best friend, Lynette.

"Girl, have you made it home yet?"

"Yes, I'm home."

"Well, I know you're not having a heart-to-heart with Copeland because that jerk is too busy wining and dining and grinning up in Lizzy's face at Drago's."

"What! How do you know that? He said he was going to a meeting."

"He's a Liar! What did he tell you?"

"Are you sure he was with Lizzy at Drago's? She's supposed to be severely ill."

"Lizzy's ill, alright. What she is, is an evil homewrecker!"

"Lynette, I need to hang up. I got to go."

I wanted to cry. It hurt. Copeland didn't care a shred about me! But I had my pride. So, I ran a warm bubble bath. I sank into the tub of warm water, immediately getting relief.

My pride and anger simmered. 'How should I deal with these two? Set him free or make them sweat? I like the second option. Ah, this water feels so good.

A few minutes later, I heard the doorbell, then knocking. A frown furrowed my forehead. 'It's probably Lynette worried.' I quickly got out of the tub, dripping wet. I threw on my robe, calling out as I approached the door.

"Who is it?"

"Tameka, it's me, Copeland."

"Copeland?" In my haste to open the door, I forgot to close my robe completely. I undid the locks and chain and opened the door. "What are you doing here? I barely managed to squeak out the words. "Where is your key?" I asked him curiously.

"Oh, I had been sleeping at the office the past few weeks, working nonstop, so I left my keys at work."

"That explains why the house seems it had been closed up and used."

I stood in the doorway, still in shock, my heart pounding, trying to keep my composure. Copeland was standing there, towering over me. "Can I come inside? It's my house too."

Sure. Come on in." I noticed he was staring at me.

"Why are you wet?" He asked, trying to divert his eyes away from my exposed chest area but struggling.

That made me look down, and I saw my cleavage. I quickly closed my robe. "Oh, I had just gotten out of the tub."

Copeland dumped his bag in the corner and sat on the couch.

"Since we are both here at the same time. I'll get the spare room ready for you."

"Oh, okay. Wait, Tameka, on second thought.

"Why go through all that trouble? The main bedroom is more than big enough for the both of us, and it has a massive king-sized bed."

"Wait! Are you suggesting we sleep in the same room?" I asked him, shocked out of my wits.

"It's late, Tameka. You just flew. What fifteen hours to get here? And I'm ready to go to bed."

"I'll get it ready for you. It'll only take a second."

"I said I'm tired and ready for bed. So I'll sleep on the lounge chair."

I had to tell myself to close my mouth. I couldn't believe we were under the same roof again. And now Copeland's shocking me with a suggestion he didn't even make on our wedding night! My heart was acting crazy, beating fast as if I was excited that he was here. But I refuse to give him the satisfaction of being bothered by him. If he could do it, so can I."

"Thanks for considering me."

"No problem.

I felt flustered. It's been so long since we were under this roof together at the same time. We've always tried to avoid one another in the past when I used to live here.

When I entered the bedroom after gathering all my things from the bathroom quietly, his eyes followed me everywhere I went as I made things comfortable for myself. Not once did Copeland take his eyes off of me. On the contrary, I could tell he was exploring every inch of my body as he stood there with his lips slightly parted and a satisfying expression on his face. It made me wonder why. But I dare not ask-no telling what he might say in his defense.

I turned on the bedside lamp and turned down the quilt and sheets.

"I'm going to say good night."

I climbed into bed. I looked over at Copeland as he stood, removing his shirt. A cascade of sensations enumerates in that bedroom. I had no idea how he felt, but something weird was happening. It felt similar to what took place in the airport when he recognized me. I hurried and looked away! I didn't want him to see me staring at his muscular chest and abs.

"Good night Tameka and thanks."

I looked up, surprised. "You're welcome, Copeland goodnight."

~~~

I smelled freshly brewed coffee before I was awake enough to realize why. "Copeland," I thought sleepily, "he still rises at dawn.'

I searched for my robe and pulled it over my silk nightie as I walked barefoot down the hall to the kitchen. I look forward to having a cup of coffee and a good conversation with Copeland.

He was standing there with his dress shirt open with a cup of coffee in his hand by the counter. My eyes took in the deeply tanned skin and damp, wavy hair as I traveled down his long torso to his narrow waistline.

"Finally, you're up. It's about time you got up. Take this cup of coffee with you while you get dressed."

"Get dressed for what?"

"I knew you would try and renegade on our agreement for you to talk to Lizzy. You are going to be late. What, you slept late hoping to get out of the appointment with Lizzy this morning?"

I shook my head. I couldn't believe this man! He's impossible!

"What! I'm tired, Copeland. I just flew fifteen hours, and I had worked a ten hours day before taking that sudden flight here. Did you ever think I may have jet lag? No, you didn't think about that!"

"Well, you are up now. So I'll wait while you go and get dressed."

Humph! You certainly will wait while I take my good time getting dressed. So I thought, storming out of the kitchen. He certainly knows how to ruin a good mood.

~~~~~

When we arrived at the family Restaurant Morton's Bistro and walked up to the table, I saw Elizabeth Hubbard. She stood, and she hugged me before I could utter a word.

"Tameka, it's so good to see you. You look wonderful."

"Thank you. It's good to see you, Lizzy." Lizzy was still pretty. Her blonde hair is softly in a loose tail. Her blue eyes caught the restaurant's soft light, making them glow like sapphires. I tried to see if she looked weak and sick, but there was no sign. I knew right then and there she was lying and putting on a show for Copeland. We ordered our meal, and Copeland was attentive, cutting her meat and feeding it to her like her fingers were broken or something. I felt ill, sitting there watching the two of them carrying on.

"From looking at you, it seems like Paris suits you."

"Paris is nice."

"I've always wanted to go to Paris. I hear it's so romantic."

"Well, romance can only happen when there's someone to be romantic with you."

"I'm sure one of those Frenchmen has recognized your beauty."

"Even if one of them did, you know I'm still a married woman. And I honor my vows before God."

"It must be tempting, though."

"No, not at all. Can you two excuse me? I need to go to the ladies' room."

Shortly after returning, I see the two of them preparing to leave.

"Is everything okay?"

"Lizzy isn't feeling too well right now. So we are going to have to do this another time. Come, Lizzy, we need to get you in bed."

"I'm sorry you're not feeling well."

"Oh, it's okay. I had fun. Let's do this another time, okay, Tameka."

"Sure, any time," I said, smiling mischievously.

"Copeland, did you hear her? I know I heard her loud and clear. She's still a married woman, humph! I thought you told me she wanted this divorce! It doesn't seem that way. I felt so humiliated sitting there listening to her brag about her marriage to you and how she takes her vows seriously."

"Lizzy, I told you she was going to divorce me. If you had been willing to wait, you would have heard for yourself."

"I don't believe you! All she was going to do his flaunt her marriage to you in front of my face. I know how women can be Copeland! I don't want to talk anymore. Bye!"

Lizzy got out and slammed the car door!

"Man! Women!" Copeland frustratedly answered his ringing phone.

"Hello!" He answered firmly.

"Hey man, whatever women problems you have, don't take it out on me."

"Oh hey, Joel, What's up?"

"I should be asking you that. But, instead, do you want to talk about it over a drink while I prepare to open the nightclub?"

"I'll see you at King's shortly." Copeland pulled up to the nightclub. He wasn't in a good mood. Lizzy was upset with him, and now Tameka's here, and nothing is going the way he hoped it would for him.

"Hey, Copeland, my man!" Joel says, throwing his arms around Copeland's shoulder.

"What's up, Joel."

"You baby, what do you want to drink? You can have anything. It's on the house."

"I'll take a white Russian."

"So tell me, man, is the divorce final?"

"What? I haven't even filled out the papers yet."

"Ah, C'mon! What's the hold-up now? You know I got plans for Tameka and me once you set my girl free."

Copeland took a swig of his drink. "Ooh, you put it away fast here, have another one."

"Look what you're doing! You done spilled it all over my Italian suit! Forget it! I'm done!"

"I'm sorry, man, it was a mistake! Don't go!"

"I got an early day at work. Later, man!"

Copeland storms out of the club while calling for his driver. At the same time, he was standing outside, waiting on his driver. Copeland could get over Joel talking about Tameka and him getting together. "How could he talk about my wife in front of my face that way!"

His car pulled up. "Take me home?"

"Which home, Sir? Do you want to go to Miss Hubbards, or do you want to go to your house?"

"Take me by Tameka!"

When Copeland walks through the door, he doesn't expect his mother, Olivia, and his grandmother Kate.

"Good evening, son."

"Good evening, mom and Gigi. What are you two doing here?"

"Well, word spreads fast. We heard that my lovely daughter-in-law was home, and we just had to see her! Here take a seat next to Tameka's son." Copeland sits down next to me. I could tell he had been drinking.

"So, I know you two modern young people are into your careers, and that's good," Olivia says.

"But it's been three long years! Don't you two think it's time to have some grandbabies? I'm not getting any younger, you know."

We both looked at one another and then back at Gigi and Olivia.

"Mom and Gigi! The girl hasn't been here a good 24 hours, and you two are planning for us to have a baby!"

"Tell him, Tameka. You want a baby too! So you can stop working so hard."

I tried to smile it off. "Well, I don't know, Gigi."

"Are you listening, Copeland? Your wife wants a baby. She's just too shy to say it."

"My phone is ringing. Hello?" Copeland says, glad for the distraction.

"Hey, it's me, Lizzy. Can you come over?"

"Not right now. I have company right now. I'll call you later. How are you feeling?"

"Not so good. Especially since I can't talk to you."

"I'll call you. I got to go."

"Who are you whispering on the phone with, son?"

"That was Lizzy."

"Lizzy Hubbard?" Gigi asked, looking puzzled.

"Why are you talking to Lizzy, Son? You are not cheating on your wife, are you?"

"Copeland, Tameka is a good girl. We didn't raise you to be a cheating slut!"

"Momma and Gigi, I..."

"Copeland, what is that on your tie and shirt? Gigi and Momma Olivia, can you excuse Copeland and me for a minute."

"Sure, Tameka, it's so good to have you home. Olivia, look how she takes care of our son." Gigi says.

Once upstairs, in the primary bedroom together. Away from the firing squad of Copeland's grandmother and mother, he let out a sigh. She detected the heat from his body close to hers. He just stood there staring at her in the dimly lit bedroom. His gaze burned into her while a muscle barely tensed in his lean jaw. He stared at the curling mass of heavy black hair falling around the nape of her slender swanlike neck. Her long, flared cotton jersey dress moved softly on her curvy frame.

It was a soft coral color flattering the intense vibrancy of her skin tone. Tilting her chin, Tameka flashed a fake smile. The expression transformed her face, startling him with her soft natural beauty. Her hair, her crowning glory, was a luxurious raven black. It highlights the exotic cheekbones in her delicate face. Her large eyes, framed by long lashes, are the same shade as her hair.

"Don't you think you should change your shirt?"

"I know what you are doing?"

"What am I doing?" I asked.

"Thanks anyway." He turned and walked away, removing the old stained shirt and changing it into a new one. Tameka turned and looked away. Once again, she felt her heart flutter. Once he was finished changing into a clean, fresh shirt

"Let's go back down to mother and Gigi."

"Copeland, listen to me. Tameka is a good girl and the best woman for you. Do you hear me, boy? Tomorrow take her shopping and buy her a gown for the company's sixty anniversary."

"Alright, mom and Gigi. We'll see you tomorrow night."

"Thanks for visiting us, Momma Olivia and Gigi." I hugged them both.

"We look forward to seeing you, Tameka, tomorrow night."

We stood outside and waved goodbye as they drove away. I looked at Copeland. I didn't realize I was just in time for a party," I said and went into the house.